How to Speak Confidently in Front of People
Being able to speak confidently in front of people can give you the power to excel in both business and personal endeavors. Even if you feel fright at the thought of public speaking, you can still do it with a few simple strategies. The following tips may help you attain this goal.
Look the part
It is amazing how much one can glean from body language. It will be difficult for you to speak confidently if you are hunched over and shaking like a leaf. Hold your body up tall. Stand up straight. You may be slouching without even realizing it. Practice this in front of the mirror before you go out.
Eye contact is also important. Look at your crowd. Do not avert your eyes in fright.
Speak in an authoritative tone
You do not have to be completely confident in everything you say to act like you are. If they can barely hear your words, then you will hardly come across as very confident. Your voice should be strong, and your words should come across in a strong manner. Make sure that people can hear you.
If you make a mistake, keep going
Sometimes people will start out strong, but then betray their anxiety when they make a slight slip up. Suddenly they become a bumbling mess. Even the most seasoned political figures and newscasters make errors on television and in front of thousands of people. The difference between them and someone who does not appear confident is that they keep going as if nothing had happened. Learn to leap over your missteps. Taking mistakes in stride shows confidence.
Do not let the situation intimidate you
Many people are intimidated by public speaking. Try to avoid this. The old adage says that you should imagine everyone naked so that they do not seem as imposing. If this is what you need to do, then go for it. Remember that they are just people like you. They have the same insecurities and fears. If it would make you feel more confident to pretend that you are with your football buddies or best friends instead, then do so.
Visualize success
It is amazing how much your attitude can influence your success. Do not go into it saying that you will "mess up" and embarrass yourself in front of all of those people. Instead visualize yourself speaking confidently. Imagine the person you want to be and be it.
Practice
The more you do something, the more comfortable you tend to be at it. Practice in front of your friends and others. If you have a particular speech, then try giving it in front of the mirror or to friends.
Join a support group
There are different groups that can help people with speaking confidently. Toastmasters is a popular group. There are even classes that give instruction on this.
Speaking confidently in front of people can help you get ahead. The above tips can help you portray a confident image.
